The Carroll Board of Zoning Appeals approved yesterday an Eldersburg group's request to allow a 55-unit retirement home on a 3.8-acre site south of Liberty Road.

The three-member board's decision followed several hours of testimony during hearings held yesterday and in May in which more than a dozen residents from neighboring Carrolltowne voiced concerns that the project proposed by Magic Partnership would lower property values.

"I do not think this project will have any adverse effect, regardless of the testimony we've heard today and last month," chairman William Law said.

The site, at Marvin Avenue and Ridge Road, is in an area zoned for residential use. Retirement homes are allowed as conditional uses.

Robert Brown, a Mid Summer Night Court resident who opposed the project, said after the hearing that residents were "thinking about" appealing the board's decision.

"We're disappointed by the outcome," Mr. Brown said. "All we can do is wait and see what happens. If it goes through, I hope it doesn't adversely affect the community."

Magic Partnership wants to build seven ranch-style buildings on the site, which is surrounded by single-family homes. The condominiums would range from 660 square feet to 880 square feet and have one or two bedrooms. They would sell for $60,000 to $70,000.

Rosario D. Rizzo, one of the owners of the property who also owns Dick's Lawn and Garden Center on Liberty Road, said a condominium association would oversee maintenance, landscaping, snow removal and other matters.

Most Carrolltowne residents opposed the development because of concerns about property values and high-density housing. Others worried about traffic and noise.

"Whether or not I choose to sell or live there the rest of my life, my property value will be affected," said Jeff Glanzer, a Mid Summer Night Court resident.

Testifying on behalf of Carrolltowne residents, Tom Kasper, a real estate appraiser, said high-density housing would have a negative impact on neighboring property values.

An appraiser testifying for Mr. Rizzo last month had said the project would not have a negative impact.

After the board's decision, Mr. Rizzo said he was willing to work with neighbors and would consider several suggestions regarding lighting and landscaping.

Initial plans call for evergreens to surround the perimeter of the property, he said.